A Battle Ready Swords Buyers Guide

When shopping on line for Replica or Fantasy weapons the description, Battle Ready Swords, should mean they can be used in a situation where metal is going to be striking metal with force capable of doing damage.

Battle Ready Swords should not only look the part, but must be manufactured to withstand the use for which they are intended. An improper mix of materials, or inferior workmanship, can literally leave the user holding a broken or hazardous replica weapon.

There are many replica swords that look substantial and are made of highly polished steel. These weapons, while making great collectibles and display items, should never be used in simulated combat. Using a display sword or weapon in simulated combat can result in injury and the loss of a nice collectible.

Replica Weapons used in combat reenactments have to be just as strong and reliable as weapons that would be used in actual combat. If a Battle Ready Weapon is purchased from an individual, or an unqualified seller, it should be treated as a "display only" weapon, until its authenticity and construction can be verified.

High carbon steel is the metal of choice for constructing Battle Ready Swords, any other steel is considered inferior and not acceptable. High carbon steel swords are meant to be used in simulated combat with other swords made of high carbon steel. All high carbon steel is not the same, and when purchasing a high carbon steel sword it must be certified as a "combat ready sword" before it is used as such.

High carbon steel swords are not unbreakable, and their use does not leave them undamaged, but they are the best made swords to perform with the same expectations as the weapons they are replicating. Swords were considered as an item that had to be replaced depending on the amount of their use. While made to strike each other, striking trees and other objects can result in irreparable damage.

Most makers of swords have different techniques of construction. There are many methods of constructing replica weapons, but most sword makers agree, the blade and the tang that forms the handle, should all be one continuous piece.

Reenactment groups require proof of the quality of Battle Ready Swords that are going to be used in their event. If they are not made of the proper materials, or their certificate of authenticity is not available, they can only be used as display weapons, and may not be allowed to be used at all. There are other rules pertaining to sharpness of edges and points that must be met.

Collectors of Battle Ready Swords appreciate the quality and authenticity of the weapons they purchase and have an unmatched enthusiasm for the hobby.

Medieval Weapons